The UN has expressed deep concern over escalating security incidents in the Gulf, warning that recent attacks risk undermining efforts to maintain regional stability.
Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric pointed to the multiple missiles and drone launched at the United Arab Emirates on Monday, which the UAE has blamed on Iran.
The strikes reportedly injured three people and sparked a fire at an oil facility in the Fujairah Oil Industry Zone.
The incident comes amid a series of maritime attacks in and around the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping route.
"We call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from any actions which could escalate tensions," Mr. Dujarric said, emphasizing that diplomacy remains the only viable path forward.
IMO: Concerns continue
Concerns for seafarers and commercial vessels continue to be voiced by the UN International Maritime Organization (IMO), which is monitoring developments in the region.
Natasha Brown, the agency's head of communications, highlighted the growing risks as scores of ships remain trapped: "De-escalation, alongside a long-term agreement that ensures freedom of navigation and the safety of seafarers, is the only way forward" she said.
The IMO remains in contact with all parties and has prepared evacuation plans, which can only be implemented once adequate safety guarantees are in place.
The IMO's Marine Environment Protection Committee on Monday adopted a resolution condemning strikes on commercial shipping in the region, warning of serious environmental risks linked to continued hostilities.
Gaza: 'Staggering' health needs as aid entry restrictions continue
Civilians in the Occupied Palestinian Territory continue to come under fire as airstrikes and gunfire exchange hit residential areas, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs ( OCHA ) said on Tuesday.
Last week saw one of the highest numbers of security incidents since the October 2025 Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, according to aid partners.
Humanitarian facilities came under fire in two separate incidents, an airstrike struck near a UN warehouse, and relief vehicles were damaged by stone throwing.
Restrictions and disruptions
Meanwhile, restrictions on the entry of engine oil, spare parts, rubble‑removal machinery and other essential items into Gaza are severely impacting the delivery of critical services.
OCHA said vehicles and generators are breaking down beyond repair which has caused disruptions to food distribution, water trucking, ambulance services and the delivery of educational supplies and medical items.
Generator failures are also affecting hospitals, including intensive care units.
"As armoured vehicles become increasingly worn out, aid workers are facing growing risks as they work to reach people in need," the UN agency said.
'Staggering' health needs
Humanitarian partners working in the health sector said the scale of unmet need in Gaza "remains staggering" as thousands of patients depend on life-sustaining services beyond what the system can supply.
They are deploying emergency medical workers in efforts to strengthen the beleaguered health system.
Skills gap threatens to leave workers behind
Most adults lack the training needed for today's rapidly changing job market.
An International Labour Organization ( ILO ) report published Tuesday, Lifelong learning and skills for the future, reveals that only 16 per cent of working-age adults participate in structured training.
As technology and artificial intelligence reshape the economy, the ILO warns that without inclusive learning, inequality will deepen.
Access is highly unequal. While half of full-time employees receive support, those in informal jobs or with less education are frequently excluded, widening divisions within and between nations.
Changing demands
Employers increasingly seek a mix of digital skills alongside communication, teamwork and problem-solving - traits that account for over half of the skills requested in some regions.
Investment remains low. In many high-income countries, 34 per cent spend less than one per cent of their education budget on adult learning, rising to 63 per cent in low-income nations.
"Lifelong learning is the bridge between today's jobs and tomorrow's opportunities," said ILO Director-General Gilbert Houngbo. He emphasised that prioritising learning is essential to ensure no part of the global workforce is left behind.
